Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows

This Salt Lake City ghost tour promises a one-hour journey into the city’s darker corners, filled with stories of murder, forgery, and ghostly apparitions. While I haven’t personally taken this walk myself, I’ve researched it thoroughly, and it sounds like a captivating experience for those who enjoy history mixed with a spooky twist.

What makes this adventure stand out? First, the guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Second, the tour takes you to six different historic sites, each with its own eerie tale. On the flip side, the tour is quite short—just an hour—and that might leave some wanting a bit more time to soak in the stories and atmosphere.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy a bit of local crime history and ghost stories, especially if you’re on a tight schedule. Families with older children, history buffs, and anyone seeking a fun, spooky evening will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Engaging guides with well-researched stories enhance the experience.
• Six historic haunted spots offer a diverse range of eerie tales.
• Authentic local stories include true crime, ghost sightings, and historic tragedies.
• The tour is short but packed with interesting details—ideal for a quick evening adventure.
• Cost-effectiveness at $24 per person for an hour-long tour worth the price.
• Accessible for most, with wheelchair access and a flexible booking policy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Salt Lake’s Haunted Streets

For those interested in a side of Salt Lake City most travelers don’t see, the Salt Lake Ghost Tour offers a tantalizing peek into its haunted past. It’s not just about ghost stories; it’s a chance to learn about the city’s darker moments—murders, fires, bombs, and bizarre legal cases—that still echo today.

Two aspects stand out: the knowledgeable guides who bring credibility and enthusiasm, and the authentic stories rooted in real history. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone who loves a good spooky story, this tour aims to entertain and inform.

A possible drawback? The one-hour duration might leave some wanting more depth or time at each site. Still, the compact format means you get a quick, lively overview without a long commitment. This tour appeals most to those with limited time in Salt Lake City but who want a memorable, spooky evening.

What You Can Expect on the Tour

The tour begins at Gallivan Plaza, a lively downtown hub, where your guide—wearing a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern—sets the tone for what’s to come. It’s a small, intimate group, perfect for hearing stories clearly and feeling part of the adventure.

From there, you’ll visit six historic sites, each with its own haunted or dark story. Here’s a breakdown:

Gallivan Plaza and Starting Point

You meet on the bridge in the Gallivan Utah Center, a busy spot that’s easy to find. Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and get your bearings. The guide will be in character with a lantern—adding to the spooky ambiance.

Federal Courthouse and Judge Ritter’s Ghost

One of the highlights is the story of Judge Ritter, whose ghost is said to haunt the courthouse. The guide explains why the angry spirit is believed to linger—adding a tangible sense of unease. Several reviews mention that the guides effectively build suspense here, making it a memorable part of the tour.

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Whiskey Street and Ghostly Activity

Walking along Whiskey Street, there’s mention of mischievous spirits, including a ghost girl who reportedly runs along the bar shelves, knocking over bottles. It’s these playful, spooky stories that keep the atmosphere lively and fun. Visitors have noted that it’s a delight to hear about the lighter side of ghostly activity in such a historic setting.

The Capitol Theater

This site is particularly chilling, as it’s linked to a tragic fire that claimed a teen’s life. The energy here is described as “chilling,” and it’s easy to imagine the sorrow and residual energy from such an event. The story of the theater’s history adds depth to the ghostly tales.

The Judge Building Bombing (1985)

A dark chapter in Salt Lake’s history involves a bombing at the Judge Building. The guide recounts the events and the lingering spirits believed to inhabit the site. Reviewers say that learning about real-life tragedies like this gives the stories more weight and makes the ghost tales feel more authentic.

The Holiday Inn Cult-Related Murder

Another haunting story involves a cult leader and a murder-suicide at the Holiday Inn. It’s a story that leaves a lasting impression and showcases the city’s more sinister past.

Whiskey Street Finale

The tour concludes on Whiskey Street, where you’re free to linger, have a drink, and possibly spot the ghost girl again. Many reviews mention that this relaxing ending is a perfect way to unwind after the spooky walk, with some even claiming to have seen the mischievous spirit play tricks on the bar shelves.

Guides and Storytelling

Throughout the tour, the guides stand out as a major positive. Several reviewers praised their storytelling ability, noting that they were knowledgeable, personable, and able to keep the group engaged. One reviewer said, “David did a great job of showing us around downtown SLC and teaching us some history along with stories of hauntings.”

The stories are based on well-researched and credible history, which lends authenticity to what might otherwise seem like tall tales. This focus on factual storytelling helps elevate the experience beyond mere ghost stories to a meaningful exploration of Salt Lake City’s past.

The Practical Side: Pricing, Duration, and Accessibility

At $24 per person, this tour offers good value considering the quality of storytelling and the number of sites visited. It’s a brief but well-packed hour, perfect for an evening activity after dinner or as a quick prelude to further exploration of downtown Salt Lake City.

The tour lasts about an hour—a manageable timeframe for most travelers—and is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for those with mobility impairments. It takes place rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriately and wear comfortable shoes.

Meeting at Gallivan Plaza is convenient, and the guides are easy to spot, always wearing the signature US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and lantern. You’re advised to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Authenticity and Value

This ghost tour strikes a nice balance between entertainment and education. The well-researched stories and credible history mean you aren’t just hearing spooky tales but also learning about the city’s darker moments. For $24, you get a memorable, lively experience that appeals to those interested in local history, true crime, and ghost lore.

Critically, the guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge make the difference. The reviews consistently mention how engaging and informative they are, which is vital for such a short tour. The stories about Judge Ritter, the bombing, and the theater fire are particularly highlighted for their authenticity and impact.

While some might wish for a longer or more in-depth experience, the quick-paced format makes it ideal for an introduction to Salt Lake City’s haunted history or a fun evening activity. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a blend of history and storytelling, with just a dash of spooky fun.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is best suited for history enthusiasts who enjoy a spooky twist, families with older children, and those on a tight schedule who want a quick yet engaging experience. It’s also perfect if you want to see downtown Salt Lake City from a different perspective—through stories of its past traumas and legends.

If you’re looking for a ghost tour with more than an hour of entertainment or in-depth investigations, you might find this one a bit brief. However, for its price and scope, it delivers a lively, entertaining experience that can serve as a memorable highlight of your Salt Lake City visit.

The Sum Up

The Salt Lake Ghost Tour offers a compelling blend of local history, chilling stories, and lively storytelling. It’s a well-organized, authentic experience that packs a lot of spooky lore into just one hour. The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning each site into a vivid tale of tragedy, crime, and restless spirits.

This tour is a smart choice for time-conscious travelers, history buffs, and ghost story lovers. It provides good value at an affordable price, with stories rooted in reality that will linger long after the tour ends. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, the eerie atmosphere and fascinating tales make it a memorable part of any Salt Lake City trip.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately one hour, making it a quick but engaging activity suited for an evening outing.

Where does the tour meet?
It starts on the bridge in the middle of Gallivan Utah Center at 239 S Main St. Arrive 15 minutes early to get settled. The guide will be wearing a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the stories involve dark themes like murder and fires. It’s probably best suited for older children or teenagers who aren’t easily frightened.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it involves walking about a mile, so consider your mobility level.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and weather-appropriate, as you’ll be outdoors in potentially chilly or rainy conditions.

Are beverages or food included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, the tour ends at Whiskey Street, where you’re free to grab a drink afterward.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your plans.

This ghost tour in Salt Lake City offers a fun, authentic glimpse into its haunted past. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply curious about the city’s darker stories, it’s a lively way to spend an evening exploring Salt Lake’s shadowy side.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby